When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the hearty warmth of a good casserole. The Meatball Pasta Casserole is a perfect example, combining robust Italian flavors with the satisfying textures of pasta and meatballs, all smothered in a rich marinara sauce and melted cheeses. This dish not only fills your home with a tantalizing aroma but also promises to be a hit at any meal, from busy weeknights to special gatherings.
Bringing Italian Comfort Home
This recipe takes classic ingredients and layers them into a dish that’s both comforting and impressively flavorful. With meatballs, pasta, and a trio of cheeses, you’re equipped to create a meal that feels like a hug in a dish. Let’s walk through the simple steps to assemble this delicious Meatball Pasta Casserole.
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
- Serving: 6-8 people
- Equipment: Oven, large mixing bowl, 9×13 inch baking dish
Recipe Title: Meatball Pasta Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cooked meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
- 12 ounces penne pasta, cooked al dente
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped for garnish
Directions:
- Prepare the Oven and Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta with marinara sauce, adding minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
- Layer the Ingredients: In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture. Top with half of the meatballs. Dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over the meatballs and sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat the Layers: Add the remaining pasta mixture, followed by the rest of the meatballs and cheeses.
- Bake Covered, Then Uncovered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the baked casserole with freshly chopped basil for a burst of freshness.
Dive Into Deliciousness
This Meatball Pasta Casserole stands out with its deep flavors and comforting texture. Serve it steaming hot to appreciate the melted cheese topping and flavorful, meaty layers underneath. It’s a dish that’s sure to please anyone looking for the hearty, comforting taste of Italy, right in their own kitchen. Enjoy the blend of textures and flavors that make this casserole a beloved classic in any culinary repertoire.
